Name: Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken (cut into 1-inch pieces).; 12 ounces penne pasta (uncooked).; 1 teaspoon kosher salt.; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.; 2 tablespoons olive oil.; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.; 4 cloves garlic (minced).; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.; 2 cups chicken broth.; 1 cup heavy cream.; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese.; ½ teaspoon paprika.; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning.; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped).; 1 cup baby spinach (optional).; Fresh basil (for garnish, if desired).

Discover a delightful dish with Marry Me Chicken Pasta, where tender chicken pieces and al dente penne pasta are tossed in a rich, creamy sauce. The sauce is made with garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil, and enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors. Leftovers can be easily reheated, making it a great option for meal prep. This easy-to-make recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that's sure to win hearts with its delicious blend of flavors. Tender chicken pieces are combined with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious sauce made with garlic, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. Let's explore the ingredients you need to make this delectable recipe.

INGREDIENTS

Chicken: 16 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken cut into 1-inch pieces, providing tender protein.
Penne Pasta: 12 ounces of uncooked pasta, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon, used to season the chicken.
Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, for a touch of spice.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking the chicken to a golden brown.
Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons, used in the sauce for richness.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, adding a fragrant and savory element to the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce.
Chicken Broth: 2 cups, creating the base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: 1 cup, adding creaminess and body to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup grated, for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Paprika: ½ teaspoon, adding a mild heat and color.
Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, for a blend of herbs.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: ½ cup, drained and chopped, providing a sweet and tangy contrast.
Baby Spinach (optional): 1 cup, for a fresh and healthy addition.
Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prep Chicken and Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.; While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and ground black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 7 - 9 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Make Marry Me Pasta Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.; Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.; Stir in the paprika, dried Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.; Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 - 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.; If using, add the baby spinach and stir until it is slightly wilted.; Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Marry Me Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce's creamy texture.

Helpful Notes

To add a bit of heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce may be less rich. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. The dish can be made with other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or rigatoni, depending on your preference.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests using fresh herbs, such as basil and parsley, to enhance the dish's flavor and aroma.

Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and browned before adding it to the sauce, as this enhances the overall taste and texture.

Chef Rachael Ray advises using a high-quality parmesan cheese for the best flavor, as it plays a key role in the sauce's richness.